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Japan: Four Island Adventure
Group Tour
Overview
A land of stark contrasts, Japan presents us with one of the most enigmatic and dynamic destinations on earth. A captivating mix of the traditional and the technological, it is inscrutable and inspiring in equal measure. The four major islands of the archipelago - Hokkaido, Honshu, Shokoku and Kyūshū - provide the spectacular backdrop to this comprehensive journey, taking us from Sapporo in the north to the tip of the Satsuma Peninsula in the south.
Travelling by road, on foot and aboard ...
A land of stark contrasts, Japan presents us with one of the most enigmatic and dynamic destinations on earth. A captivating mix of the traditional and the technological, it is inscrutable and inspiring in equal measure. The four major islands of the archipelago - Hokkaido, Honshu, Shokoku and Kyūshū - provide the spectacular backdrop to this comprehensive journey, taking us from Sapporo in the north to the tip of the Satsuma Peninsula in the south.
Travelling by road, on foot and aboard Japan’s famous shinkansen (bullet train), we will experience all the best that this remarkable country has to offer. From its renowned cuisine and famed gardens, to its dramatic landscapes and iconic treasures we will journey through the cultural and natural heart of the ‘Land of The Rising Sun’.
A journey of superlatives, we will take in the colourful chaos of Tokyo and the serene majesty of Kyoto, the profound and poignant memorial that is Hiroshima and the scenic splendour of the Michinoku Coastal Trail and the Iya Valley. An old Japanese proverb wisely states “One encounter, one chance”, which reminds us to cherish each moment and each encounter. This journey is one to savour those very moments and encounters.
HIGHLIGHTS
At a glance
MEALS
TRANSPORT
Bullet and local trains and private minibuses
GROUP SIZE
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
8 nights x Standard
ENTRANCE FEES
FITNESS RATING
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wherever possible, we aim to use characterful accommodation that enhances the overall travel experience. This can obviously vary greatly across both countries and tours. On this particular trip, we will be in a mix of hotels and more traditional local accommodation (ryokan). Although minimalist, with tatami floor, futon beds and low-rise furniture, the Japanese-style properties are of a high quality and a fine example of traditional Japanese hospitality. Traditionally, in Japan, hotel rooms can be smaller than in other destinations and are typically functional, even in more modern properties.
In traditional properties, such as ryokan, there may be shared bathroom facilities. Please note that, as is tradition in Japan, bathing facilities at hot springs and onsen may be separated by gender. You will need to shower before using communal baths and please keep in mind that some facilities have a no swimsuit policy. In more traditional accommodations, the onsen and washing station may be the primary cleaning facilities. These are typically communal open spaces, and you may not have a shower in your room.
You must also be prepared to sit on the floor to eat your meals as well as use futon beds in some locations.
Please note that the accommodation mentioned in the itinerary is intended as a guide only and is always subject to availability.
FITNESS RATING
LOW: You should be comfortable walking around towns and cultural sites. May include some optional walks (typically 1-2hrs).LOW/MODERATE: May be of a long duration and/or involve numerous border-crossings. May include easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-3hrs/day). You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle.
MODERATE: May include several easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-5hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle. Previous experience of similar trips helpful.
MODERATE/HIGH: May involve several days of moderate hiking (up to 3-6 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
HIGH: May involve several days of moderate/strenuous trekking (up to 4-7 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a very fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
Map & Itinerary
Individual departures may vary so please refer to the information in the tour specific links in the Dates and Prices section below
Day 1 Tour starts in Sapporo
Day 1 Tour starts in Sapporo
Our journey begins in the city of Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture. Home to nearly two million people, and ranked as the fifth largest city in Japan, Sapporo is Hokkaido’s cultural, economic and political centre. The tour starts at our centrally located hotel, where we can relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of downtown Sapporo before a welcome dinner this evening.
Day 2 Sapporo: City Tour and Otaru
Day 2 Sapporo: City Tour and Otaru
This morning begins with a tour of Sapporo by foot and by metro, combining some of the city’s cultural and culinary attractions. The city’s famous Susukino district in particular is well known for its ramen stalls and provides us with an opportunity to sample the gastronomic flavour of the city. This afternoon we then travel by train to visit the historic port city of Otaru, with its beautifully preserved canals and interesting herring mansions, before returning to Sapporo in time to enjoy an evening visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum and Garden, where we can savour a popular dish of barbecued mutton…known locally as the Genghis Khan.
Day 3 Sapporo - Asahikawa: Ainu Museum and Dance Performance
Day 3 Sapporo - Asahikawa: Ainu Museum and Dance Performance
Departing Sapporo this morning, we drive next to Asahikawa, a city famed for its annual winter festival and its traditional ramen cuisine. Traditionally home to the indigenous Ainu people, on arrival we will have an opportunity to visit the Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Museum in the company of an Ainu guide. This will be followed by a Ainu dance performance and a visit to the Ainu section of the Asahikawa City Museum. This evening we will then enjoy a culinary visit to Furarito Alley, where you’ll be free to sample some of the city’s famed cuisine. Returning to our hotel, there may be some time to relax in the onsen.
*Please note that there are separate onsen facilities for males and females at our hotel tonight.
Day 4 Asahikawa - Sapporo: Ueno Farm and Daisetsu-zan Cable Car
Day 4 Asahikawa - Sapporo: Ueno Farm and Daisetsu-zan Cable Car
Just a 30-minute drive from Asahikawa lie the beautiful flowering gardens of Ueno Farm, an English-style garden that was started by a local farmer in 1906. Wonderfully adapted to the climate of Hokkaido, the gardens are divided into 10 themed areas and are home to over 2,000 varieties of perennial plants and flowers. A trip on the Asahidake Ropeway cable car then provides us with some stunning views of the volcanic peaks of the Daisetsuzan Mountains before we drive back to Sapporo for the evening.
Day 5 Sapporo - Hakodate: City Tour and Mount Hakodate Aerial Tramway
Day 5 Sapporo - Hakodate: City Tour and Mount Hakodate Aerial Tramway
A high-speed train journey this morning takes us south, towards the bustling port city of Hakodate. Once the most important in northern Japan, Hakodate can date its origins back to the middle years of the 15th century and this afternoon we’ll take a tour around its historic centre in the company of a local guide. Part of our tour will also take in the picturesque landscapes of nearby Onuma Quasi National Park, before we end the day enjoying the city’s Bay area and the views from the Mount Hakodate aerial tramway.
Please note, your main luggage will be transferred separately from Sapporo to Tokyo today and will be ready for you when you check in to your hotel on Day 8. Please prepare an overnight bag for three nights.
Day 6 Hakodate - Sendai: Morning Market visit and Goryokaku Park
Day 6 Hakodate - Sendai: Morning Market visit and Goryokaku Park
After breakfast this morning we pay a visit to Hakodate’s famed fish market, with its hundreds of fish and seafood stalls. This will be followed by a short tram ride to nearby Goryokaku Park, where we’ll find the site of Hakodate’s iconic star-shaped fortress. Built in the mid 19th century to protect the city during the civil war between shogunate soldiers and imperial troops, the area today is recognised as a national special historic site. A shinkansen from Shin-Hakodate Hokuto then takes us south to Honshu, the second of our islands, where we arrive in the city of Sendai early this evening.
Day 7 Sendai: Michinoku Coastal Trail Hike
Day 7 Sendai: Michinoku Coastal Trail Hike
Set out from Sendai for a day of quiet reflection and natural beauty along Japan’s northeastern coast. Sail to Tashiro Island—fondly known as “Cat Island”—and walk a scenic section of the Michinoku Trail. This peaceful 4.3-mile hike winds through forest paths and along quiet coastal ridges, offering sweeping sea views and a chance to spot the island’s famously friendly feline residents. Return to the mainland for a moving visit to the Miyagi 3.11 Tsunami Disaster Memorial Museum, before ending the day in tranquil Matsushima. Our hotel tonight is a very traditional ryokan-style property with tatami flooring and whilst basic, it will allow us to experience authentic Japanese hospitality. On check-in, we will be provided with yukata (traditional robes) to wear in rooms, around the hotel, and to the onsen. The onsen here is one of the only onsen in this area of Japan and offers the cultural experience of traditional Japanese bathing that is central to the ryokan experience.
The Michinoku Trail should take around 4 hours, including lunch.
Please note that there are separate onsen facilities for males and females at Hotel Daimatsuso.
Day 8 Sendai - Tokyo: Matsushima Bay Cruise
Day 8 Sendai - Tokyo: Matsushima Bay Cruise
After a traditional Japanese breakfast, we will set off for Matsushima Bay. For centuries, Matsushima Bay has long been revered as one of Japan’s three most scenic views, its azure waters scattered with over 200 pine-covered islands. This morning we will take a boat cruise around the bay, before heading back to Sendai early this afternoon. After enjoying a tour of the Nikka Whisky Distillery and learning a little something about Japan’s increasingly popular whisky production, we then take the train to Tokyo, arriving in the Japanese capital later this afternoon.
Day 9 Tokyo: Day at Leisure
Day 9 Tokyo: Day at Leisure
A city of richly diverse contrasts, Tokyo is home to over 14 million people. Today it is one of the most populous urban areas in the world, but its historic heart is filled with museums, temples and shrines. A day at leisure affords an opportunity to explore this most enigmatic city at our own pace, perhaps taking in the famous Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, or maybe enjoying the views from the top of the Tokyo Tower. Tokyo also has an enviable reputation for its retail and culinary experiences, so a visit to the Ginza, Akihabara or Shibuya districts might be of more interest.
Day 10 Nakasendo Trail Hike: Magome - Tsumago
Day 10 Nakasendo Trail Hike: Magome - Tsumago
Departing the capital this morning we take another journey on the shinkansen, travelling south towards Nagoya, before continuing by express train to Nakatsugawa and then by road on to Magome, our gateway onto the famous Nakasendō trail. Approximately 534 kilometres long, the historic Nakasendō Samurai Trail dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868) and its cobblestone roads once connected present day Tokyo with Kyoto. We will hike the stretch between Magome and Tsumago, a three hour hike that will take us over the Magome Pass. We then rejoin the vehicle to continue on to Gifu Mino, where we spend the night.
Please note, the hike today will be approx. 3 hours in length, and 5.5 miles in distance. Level of hike easy-moderate.
Please note, your main luggage will be transferred separately today from Tokyo to Kyoto. Your luggage will be waiting for you when you check in to your hotel in Kyoto. Please prepare an overnight bag for one night.
Day 11 Gifu - Kyoto: Washi Paper Experience and Gifu Castle
Day 11 Gifu - Kyoto: Washi Paper Experience and Gifu Castle
Mino Washi is a traditional style of Japanese paper that has been made in Mino for over 1,300 years. This morning we will learn more about this ancient technique with a fascinating papermaking experience tour, before paying a visit to the local Washi Akari Art Museum. This afternoon then sees us visiting Gifu Castle by foot and by ropeway. Located on nearby Mount Kinkazan, the castle can date its origins back to the early years of the 13th century and today is one of the city’s most iconic symbols. Transferring to Nagoya train station, we then take the afternoon shinkansen to Kyoto.
Day 12 Kyoto Alternative City Tour
Day 12 Kyoto Alternative City Tour
Once the seat of the imperial Japanese court, Kyoto is considered the country’s cultural capital and one of the best preserved cities in Japan. Today we offer up a more authentic experience of the ancient city, beginning with a morning visit to northern Kyoto by train, taking us away from the crowds and towards the charming mountain village of Kibune, with its ryokans, cedar forests and photogenic shrine. Returning to the city this afternoon, we then visit the 8th century Kiyomizo Temple, one of the most celebrated in Japan, before finishing our tour amongst the teahouses and shops of Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district.
Day 13 Kyoto - Takamatsu: Sake Tasting and Kobe City Tour
Day 13 Kyoto - Takamatsu: Sake Tasting and Kobe City Tour
Leaving the ancient capital behind this morning, we head next to Nishinomiya by local train and on foot. On arrival we will enjoy a tour of the Museum of Sake and Sakura, where we will get an opportunity to sample some of Japan’s famed rice wine. Continuing along the coast towards the city of Kobe we then pay a visit to Meriken Park, which includes a memorial to the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995 in which some 5,000 people died. A series of train journeys then brings us to Takamatsu on Shikoku Island and the next leg of our island adventure. This evening for dinner in Takamatsu, we will try our hand at making our own udon noodles before eating our creations. Udon has been made in this area of Japan for centuries and the best udon in the country are said to be made here.
Please note, your main luggage will be transferred separately today from Kyoto to Takamatsu. Your luggage will be at your hotel in Takamatsu for your second night's stay. Please prepare an overnight bag for one night.
Day 14 Shikoku: Iya Valley
Day 14 Shikoku: Iya Valley
Discover the hidden charms of Japan’s Iya Valley, a remote, mist-shrouded gorge famed for its dramatic scenery and timeless mountain culture. Capture the iconic vine bridge of Kazurabashi, then venture deeper into the countryside by mini vehicle. Meet the life-sized scarecrows of Kakashi no Sato, enjoy handmade soba and local vegetables with folk songs, and connect with locals over roasted tea in historic Ochiai Village.
Day 15 Shikoku: Naoshima Art island by E-bike
Day 15 Shikoku: Naoshima Art island by E-bike
To the north of Takamatsu, amongst the waters of the Seto Inland Sea, lies the small island of Naoshima. Best known for its numerous contemporary art installations and museums, the island includes amongst its cultural treasures the Chichu Art Museum, a sculpture garden and, randomly, a James Bond museum. Measuring just over 14 square kilometres in size, the island is perfect for exploring by e-bike and we will have ample time to make the most of this engaging spot before returning to Takamatsu by ferry later in the day.
Please note, if you wish to visit the Art project area, you will need to pay for this locally at an additional cost. If you do not wish to cycle today, you will be taken around Naoshima Island by mini bus. Please note that the tour leader will be with the clients, guiding the cycling and, therefore, those who wish to visit by mini bus will visit the sites of Naoshima independently with advice from the tour leader in advance. Cycling today includes helmets.
Day 16 Takamatsu - Kurashiki - Hiroshima: Koraku-en Garden
Day 16 Takamatsu - Kurashiki - Hiroshima: Koraku-en Garden
Crossing back over to Honshu Island we travel by express train to the city of Okayama first thing this morning, to pay a visit to its famous Kōraku-en Garden. Revered as one of Japan’s top three traditional gardens, Kōraku-en can date its origins back to 1700, when it was built by Ikeda Tsunamasa, lord of Okayama. Located on the banks of the Asahi River, its wonderful collection of lawns, ponds, tea houses and streams is designed in the kaiyu (scenic promenade) style. Boarding a local train for the short ride to Kurashiki, we then spend the afternoon enjoying the Edo period canals of this picturesque city. We take a train to continue our journey to Hiroshima.
Please note, your main luggage will be transferred separately from Takamatsu to Ibusuki. Your luggage will be waiting for you at the hotel in Ibusuki when you arrive. Please prepare an overnight bag for two nights.
Day 17 Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Park & Museum
Day 17 Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Park & Museum
Today sees us exploring the most emotive destination of our Japanese journey, the city of Hiroshima. Forever connected with the horrors of the atomic bomb that devastated the city at the end of the Second World War, we pay a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and Museum. A special okonomiyaki lunch is also included today, affording us an opportunity to try a traditional teppanyaki pancake, cooked on an iron griddle, before an afternoon left free to explore at our leisure. One option may be a visit to Miyajima to view the Itsukushima Shrine and the island’s famous torii gate.
Day 18 Hiroshima - Ibusuki: Chiran Samurai District & Kamikaze Peace Museum
Day 18 Hiroshima - Ibusuki: Chiran Samurai District & Kamikaze Peace Museum
This morning, depart Hiroshima by train to Kyushu Island to the city of Kagoshima and from here head to Chiran, home to a wonderfully preserved Samurai district complete with houses and gardens that date back some 250 years. . Travelling there by road this morning on arrival we will take a tour of the district, before moving on to explore the nearby Kamikaze Peace Museum, dedicated to the troops that fought the last bloody stand that culminated in the brutal battle for Okinawa. Continue to Ibusuki where we will stay overnight and enjoy a traditional Kaiseki dinner.
Day 19 Ibusuki - Kagoshima: Black Vinegar & Sea kayaking
Day 19 Ibusuki - Kagoshima: Black Vinegar & Sea kayaking
This morning, travel by road back towards Kagoshima. Dominated by the towering presence of Mount Sakurajima, Japan’s most active volcano, the city lies at the southwestern tip of Kyūshū, which affords us an opportunity to enjoy a sea kayaking experience around the northeastern part of the Satsuma Peninsula and a tour of a local black vinegar brewery. Stay overnight in Kagoshima.
Note: you do not need prior experience to do the sea-kayaking experience and you will be provided with basic information by the instructor prior to doing the experience. The sea kayaking will still take place if it is raining and will only be cancelled if there are strong winds and high waves. We will be warned in advance of any cancellation however it could be cancelled on the day of the activity. If the experience is cancelled, we will visit the Shochu sake brewery for a tour and tasting. Wetsuits and life jackets will be provided for the sea kayaking. The activity will include 30 minutes preparation and briefing and 60 minutes of sea kayaking. For anyone who does not wish to take part in the sea kayaking, there is a cafe and souvenir shop nearby.
Day 20 Kagoshima - Fukuoka: Sengan-en Garden & Farewell Dinner
Day 20 Kagoshima - Fukuoka: Sengan-en Garden & Farewell Dinner
This morning, we pay a visit to the Sengan-en Garden, a designated Place of Scenic Beauty that was originally created back in 1658 by a member of the Shimazu clan. Incorporating views of Mount Sakurajima and the waters of Kagoshima Bay, at its centre stands the Iso Residence, preserved to reflect the life of the Shimazu family back in the 1890s. Travel by train to Fukuoka for your final night in Japan. We will enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Day 21 Tour ends in Fukuoka
Day 21 Tour ends in Fukuoka
The tour ends after breakfast.
ACCOMMODATION USED ON THIS TOUR
Sapporo Stream Hotel, Sapporo
The Stream Hotel is a new, lifestyle hotel in Sapporo’s vibrant Susukino entertainment district. The hotel blends stylish interior design with local Hokkaido culture and seasonal cuisine, including distinctive breakfast offerings. Guest rooms offer sophisticated and innovative design with calming and relaxing lighting and features.
Hotel Amanek Asahikawa, Asahikawa
Hotel Amanek Asahikawa is a modern, 3-star hotel situated in the heart of Asahikawa, Hokkaido, just a 5-minute walk from JR Asahikawa Station. Its prime location offers easy access to local attractions, shopping, and dining options, making it an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers.
The hotel features 221 well-appointed rooms and is home to a relaxing top-floor public onsen (separate male and female bathing facilities), offering a relaxing space with indoor and partially open-air tubs, providing guests with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Additional amenities include a buffet breakfast and a 24-hour front desk.
Hakodate Kokusai Hotel, Hakodate
The Hakodate Kokusai Hotel is a stylish and well-regarded 4-star hotel located in central Hakodate, offering a blend of modern comfort and refined elegance. Guests can enjoy spacious, tastefully decorated rooms and an exceptional breakfast buffet that features both Japanese and Western dishes, including freshly made seafood bowls and omelettes prepared on the spot. The hotel is also home to several dining options, such as teppanyaki cuisine, a sky lounge with sweeping night views, and a restaurant specialising in local seafood. The hotel also features an onsen (separate bathing facilities for males and females) with indoor and outdoor bathing facilities that are open in the morning, afternoon and evening until 01:00. Please note that access to the outdoor bathing area is weather-dependent.
Hotel Metropolitan, Sendai and Matsushima Bay
Hotel Metropolitan Sendai is a premium hotel in the heart of Sendai, Japan, conveniently located next to Sendai Train Station. With contemporary guest rooms offering free Wi-Fi and elegant design, it provides welcoming comfort and easy access to shopping, dining and cultural sites across Tohoku. The hotel houses multiple restaurants and bars, including Japanese, Chinese and Western options that showcase fresh regional ingredients from Miyagi Prefecture
Hotel Daimatsuso, Sendai and Matsushima Bay
Nestled in the scenic coastal town of Matsushima, Hotel Daimatsuso offers a tranquil retreat blending traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts. A mere three-minute walk from the picturesque Matsushima Bay, this ryokan-style hotel features tatami-mat rooms with futons, chabudai dining tables, and bay views. Guests can unwind in natural hot spring baths and savour kaiseki meals and traditional Japanese breakfasts showcasing fresh seafood from Shiogama Port. With complimentary Wi-Fi, free parking, and proximity to cultural landmarks like Zuigan-ji Temple, Hotel Daimatsuso provides an authentic and serene Japanese experience and the onsen here is one of the few onsen available in this region of Japan. Onsen bathing is central to the ryokan experience and it is the main bathing area at this property. As is tradition in Japan, there are separate male and female bathing facilities.
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Tokyo Shiodome, Tokyo
Located conveniently within walking distance of Shiodome and Shinbashi stations, the Royal Park Hotel Iconic Tokyo Shiodome is a modern and stylish accommodation option offering spectacular city views of Tokyo. The property is home to a number of dining options and a chic bar and lounge. The hotel has an indulgent spa and fitness centre and a varied and delicious international buffet.
Rihga Gran Kyoto, Kyoto
The RIHGA Gran Kyoto is a stylish, contemporary hotel that blends modern comfort with touches of Kyoto’s traditional charm. The hotel boasts 261 thoughtfully designed rooms, each featuring separate bathrooms and washrooms. The guest rooms are designed with a balance of minimalism and warmth, making them a perfect retreat after a day of sightseeing. Guests can enjoy a variety of breakfast options, including the seasonal "Shikisai-bako"—a beautifully arranged layered box filled with local Kyoto ingredients—as well as a buffet breakfast offering a range of both Western and Japanese dishes. There is also access to the hotel's onsen, which is open from 06:00-10:00 and 15:00-01:00. There are separate bathing facilities for males and females.
JR Clement Takamatsu, Takamatsu
JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu is a vibrant, full-service hotel located just a minute’s walk from Takamatsu Station, offering stunning views of both the Seto Inland Sea and the bustling city. The rooms feature a sleek and contemporary design, blending comfort with modern style, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. For breakfast, indulge in a delightful buffet spread, offering a tasty mix of Western and Japanese dishes. The hotel is home to a variety of dining options, including Japanese, Western, and Chinese restaurants, as well as a charming bakery where you can try local Kagawa specialties like wasanbon sugar, udon, and olive products.
Candeo Hotels Hiroshima, Hiroshima
Candeo Hiroshima offers a stylish and comfortable stay in the heart of Hiroshima, blending modern amenities with subtle Japanese design touches. Guests can unwind at the rooftop SkySpa, which features open-air baths, saunas, and city views—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The hotel's rooms are thoughtfully designed, incorporating elements inspired by Japanese culture, such as bonsai-themed chandeliers and patterns reminiscent of traditional gardens . Located just a short walk from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome, it's an ideal base for exploring the city.
Hakusuikan, Ibusuki
Ibusuki Hakusuikan is a prestigious onsen ryokan on the scenic Kagoshima coastline set among pine gardens with ocean views. Its rooms blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comforts, offering a range of styles. Guests can relax and soak in diverse hot spring baths, from Genroku-style indoor pools to the famous natural sunamushi sand baths. The property also features fine seasonal dining and cultural charm.
Nishitetsu Grand Hotel, Fukuoka
Nishitetsu Grand Hotel is conveniently located next to Tenjin Station and a 15-minute walk from the entertainment district of Nakasu. Guest rooms are comfortable and simply furnished and there are a number of dining options available including a French and Japanese restaurant.
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Accommodation displayed here should be taken as a guide only. *Please refer to the Detailed Itinerary of your individual departure for more information.
PRIVATE HOLIDAYS: DATES DON’T FIT?
All group tours can be taken on a private basis.
Additional Details
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Reducing Single Use Plastic
We recognise the environmental issues and challenges around single-use plastic in many countries we visit and are actively working with our partners on the ground to reduce plastic waste on our tours and within the hotels and restaurants we visit. You can help to reduce your personal plastic waste by taking a refillable, filtered water bottle with you on your trip. Filtered water bottles can be refilled from water sources including your hotel room and restaurant taps, drinking fountains and refill stations. Every time you refill your bottle without the use of single-use plastic, you will be helping to reduce waste and protect the environment. Filtered Water Bottles | Wild Frontiers (wildfrontierstravel.com)
Supplementary Information
Travel in Style
There is no doubt that Japan is famous across the globe for its exceptional public transport. Departing with precision timing it is an experience not to be missed while travelling through this amazing country. We will use multiple forms of public transport on this trip including but not limited to trains, local buses and subways. On some days we will use all of the above to get from one destination to the next. We feel that this gives you access to an authentic part of Japanese culture that would be missed by simply taking a private coach from one city to the next and it is part of the adventure of this tour.Getting There
If you would like us to send you a quote for the suggested tour flights or on any alternative flight that may suit you better, please let us know, noting that for our US clients, we will most likely refer you to one of our preferred partners. For this trip our suggested flights from the UK (subject to change) are shown below.
If you wish to arrange your own flights you are completely free to do so and in this case we can arrange any transfers or supplementary accommodation that you may require. However please note that if you are planning on making your own flight arrangements, we recommend that you first check with us to see if the trip is guaranteed. We then suggest that you purchase flights that are flexible and ideally refundable as due to the nature of adventure travel, itineraries and destination accessibility can change at any time. For more information, please refer to our booking conditions.
| Flight Code | Departing | Arriving |
|---|---|---|
| CX 252 | London Heathrow (LHR) 11:00 | Hong Kong Airport (HKG) 07:40 |
| CX 580 | Hong Kong Airport (HKG) 09:10 | Sapporo Chitose Apt (CTS) 14:50 |
| CX 589 | Itazuke Airport (FUK) 16:30 | Hong Kong Airport (HKG) 19:35 |
| CX 255 | Hong Kong Airport (HKG) 23:35 | London Heathrow (LHR) 06:20 |
Visas & Vaccinations
Visas
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa
For this tour, UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Japan. However, all foreign visitors to Japan must complete a Customs Declaration Form and Disembarkation Card.
Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers to Japan.
For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.
For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
Covid Testing: No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers.
If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Extensions
If you have more time available, why not arrive early to adjust to a new time zone or just to get a feel for the country before your tour starts? Alternatively, you might choose to allow a few extra days after the tour to relax or to undertake some further exploration.
The choice is completely yours and we can usually arrange anything from simply additional accommodation and transfers to full tailor-made itineraries*. Please contact the office for more details and to discuss your requirements.
*Please note bespoke, tailor-made itineraries need to be a minimum of 7 days and we can only offer them in countries where we have a tailor-made expert
Governmental Travel Advice
Many governments issue advice which highlights potential hazards their citizens might experience when travelling abroad. We strongly suggest you refer to your country’s particular advisory site before booking and contact us if you have any queries or concerns. Click to follow links to the advice of the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or the US State Department.
Non-UK citizens should consult the travel advice of their respective governments.
Key Information
CLIMATE
Japan is a seasonal destination with distinct seasons. Spring brings mild weather and the iconic cherry blossom (sakura) which travels from the bottom of the country to the top from March to May. Autumn offers cool temperatures whilst the country explodes with colourful foliage of red, orange and gold. As a long country spanning 3,000km, the temperature and weather does vary between Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south.
Generally, Japan's weather can be unpredictable and we recommend that you prepare for both wet and dry weather, as well as hot and cold, no matter the time of year you are travelling.
IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?
It may sound obvious, but not all Wild Frontiers tours are the same, and it is important that you choose a tour which is suitable for you. To help you decide and ensure you choose a suitable tour, please refer to our helpful guide here. As a minimum, you should make sure that you read the day-by-day itinerary and the Key Aspects to Consider sections carefully. Should you still have any concerns about your ability to partake in any aspect of the tour, then please contact us.
KEY ASPECTS TO CONSIDER
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, however, please note there are a selection of easy/moderate hikes in the itinerary which will last 2-3 hours in length. We will make use of the fantastic train system throughout Japan and for your convenience, we will sometimes have your main luggage transferred between destinations. Therefore, throughout your tour, there will be overnights where you will be without your main luggage. Please ensure you bring a small overnight bag to take with you for overnight essentials. Luggage transfers in Japan are a convenient and reliable service that adds to the ease and enjoyment of travel. Known for their exceptional punctuality and care, these services allow us to send your bags ahead to hotels, freeing you to explore without having to drag your luggage around. The process is secure, efficient, and reflects Japan’s meticulous attention to detail—turning a simple logistics task into part of the fun and stress-free experience of travelling in Japan.
Please be aware that Japan is an incredibly popular and in-demand destination and, therefore, some areas we will visit during this tour will inevitably be busier with tourists than you may be accustomed to on other Wild Frontiers tours. This can, in some cases, also extend to public transport which is featured throughout this tour. On some days, this could include multiple forms of transport, such as bus, subway, train, ferry, and taxi.
For those nights that we stay in traditional lodgings as opposed to a hotel, you will need to be happy with sleeping on futons, getting in and out of low-rise furniture (which will often be the norm in many local restaurants), and eating meals in a cross-legged position.
Whilst we endeavour to cater for all diets, Japan can be quite rigid on dietary requirements and you may find it tricky to find options that can cater for some dietary requirements when you are eating independently throughout the tour, particularly if you are vegan or gluten-free. Meals included in the tour can cater for most dietary requirements and your tour leader will be able to recommend suitable restaurants during the tour. If you have any questions concerning your specific dietary needs prior to booking, please feel free to reach out to us to discuss this further.
NEW TOURS
Never complacent, here at Wild Frontiers we are continually on the look-out for new tour ideas. Each year we aim to put on a selection of new tours in order to continually provide our clients with a fresh and varied choice of some of the best journeys on the planet. Although a lot of fun, these tours will often involve a greater element of unpredictability than our better-established tours, so please come prepared.
TRAVELLING SOLO AND SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.
On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. Please note due to the style of accommodation in Japan, rooms for single occupancy might be quite small.
INSURANCE
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
General Information
TOUR PRICE
All our tours are priced on a land-only basis, giving you maximum flexibility when deciding how to get to and from your tour.
DEPOSIT
A 10% deposit is required to confirm your booking.
PROTECTION FOR YOUR MONEY
For further details please see our travelling with peace of mind page
WILD MILES
This tour will earn you 11006 Wild Miles
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour/nationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
WILD FRONTIERS COMMUNITY
If you’re still not sure if this trip is right or just want to see get some different perspectives, then why not have a look at the wide variety of resources we have on our website? Browse our community section to read our blogs, watch videos and find out about our events.
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
We are frequently asked what makes Wild Frontiers different from other tour operators. Visit our Why Wild Frontiers page to find out.